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Lhopiteau, who is new to the energy industry, will take up the role as of 1 March. Areva is currently in the process of forming a joint venture with Gamesa for the development and marketing of offshore wind turbines.

Lhopiteau will replace Pierre Aubouin. When contacted by “uåX˜äŠÊ˜·³Ç, Areva refused to comment on whether Aubouin will leave the company, and the reasons for his replacement.

Lhopiteau began his career as an entrepeneur in 1992, before joining accountants Arthur Andersen in 1994. In 2004, he joined biscuit company Morina Baie St Michel as head of development and finance.

In 2011, he became chief financial officer at arms firm DCNS. Following this he was recruited to DCNS's parent company, Thales in 2013.